Do I need a contract?

Why do I need a contract? If I say I will DJ a gig I will DJ a gig. Well that's great and I hope that is true. But for the peace of mind for your customer, creating a contract is the best way to go. A contract will not only protect the customer, but it can also protect you as a DJ. For example, you are DJing a wedding reception and certain members of the crowd get a little too crazy and are threatening you or your equipment. Withing the contract there can be language that will allow you at your discretion to pack up your equipment and leave the gig. While this is an extreme example, I'm sure it does happen. It is better that you are protected than to have your equipment damaged.
So where do I get a contract. I'm sure you can go online and search for a contract, but this is far too important to leave to some random person. Search for a lawyer, discuss your needs for a contract and have it done professionally. Just like someone in need of a DJ, there is a person that can write a contract. Are you going to trust your neighbor to write it for you. Well, only if that person is a lawyer.
So, protect your customers. Give them confidence that you are a serious DJ and will act professionally. But not only that, protect yourself. You will be happy you did.

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Mixing music at a wedding reception

You've got the gig and wonder now, "Do I need to start to learn how to beat mix music?". The answer to that is no. There is a huge difference between DJing a club and DJing a wedding. When you are in a club it is obvious that knowing how to beat mix will make or break you as a DJ. It is key that there is not a lull in the music or the dance floor will clear. You may even get some folks in the crowd throwing some jeers your way.
But have no fear. You are not DJing a club. You are DJing a reception. And while you may beat mix a few songs here and there, for the most part you will be playing some songs, making some announcements, doing some ceremonial functions.
So what kind of mixing are you going to do. Well it is more important to play a wide variety of music. Remember you are most likely crossing generations while DJing a wedding reception. The entire guest list isn't going to like dance music. You must be prepared to play songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90, 00s, country, Top 40, Rap, dance, pretty much anything and everything.
So are you going to play songs from all of these decades, well no. You have to pay attention to the crowd. Get a feel for the people from the party and the energy of the room. But don't freak out it isn't hard. People are there to have a good time.
Finally, don't forget to ask the bride and groom what kind of music they want to hear and some music they don't want to hear. However, if they say they don't want the chicken dance or the YMCA, remind them that these are very popular and fun songs. While they may think they are totally cheesy, and they are, if a guest requests it, it is likely that there is a good number of people that are waiting to hear it. But in the end it is the bride and grooms call. They are two most important people at this party and they are the ones that will or won't be recommending you to their friends.

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Dress for Success

Yes, this is an old classic saying. But it couldn't be more true. If you are DJing a club, do you go in wearing a tuxedo,? No. So, if you are DJing a wedding reception you can't wear your favorite polo and call it a day.


A wedding is a formal occassion and hopefully our young couple will only have one of these occassions. So things you need to do to prepare:

1. Shave. You can't go into the reception with a 5 o'clock shadow



2. Iron your tuxedo shirt.



3. Wear a tuxedo. Look over your tux before the gig. You may need to get it drycleaned.



4. Wear cufflinks and shirt buttons. This might be a small detail. But it is a difference maker.



5. Tuxedo shoes. It is not 1983, don't wear tennis shoes with your tux.

That's it. Have respect for the people you are working for. Do the right thing. If you do, you will be noticed and recommended.

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